East Coast United Jiu Jitsu & Muay Thai

East Coast United Jiu Jitsu & Muay Thai has been a family-owned fixture in White Plains since 2009, built around the vision of head instructor JoJo Guarin and a team of experienced black belts including Matt Kachmar, Dan Stearns, Mike Pomerantz, George DePalma, Mark Gross, Anthony Sullivan, Yves Jean, and Christian Medina. JoJo Guarin, a black belt with years of teaching and competition experience, sets the tone for the academy’s practical approach to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu—prioritizing solid fundamentals, technical growth, and the kind of day-to-day mat time that produces real progress. The school’s leadership draws on a deep pool of knowledge, making sure each class—whether taught by JoJo or another senior instructor—stays true to the art’s roots while adapting to the needs of modern students. Training at East Coast United covers both gi and no-gi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, with a class structure that supports everyone from first-day beginners to advanced practitioners. Adult students can choose from fundamentals, intermediate and all-levels classes, plus specialized sessions like competition class and open mats, including a purple belt and up gi session led by JoJo Guarin. No-gi is given equal footing, with instruction from coaches like Dan Stearns, Mark Gross, and Christian Medina. The academy also offers a full Muay Thai program under instructors such as Luis Gonzalez, Brandon Medina, and others, rounding out the striking side for those looking to mix disciplines or cross-train. Kids’ classes are a cornerstone of the academy, divided into Lil’ Waveriders (ages 4–7) and Waveriders (ages 7–12), with both gi and no-gi options led by Christian Medina and Brandon Medina. These classes aim to balance discipline and fun, helping young students build resilience, confidence, and lasting friendships. The facility itself is a 6,000-square-foot space with practical amenities like locker rooms, laundry service, fitness equipment, and a sauna—making it easier for busy families and serious students alike to fit training into their lives. Drop-ins are welcome, and the academy supplies gear for newcomers, making it accessible to anyone ready to step onto the mats.

Amenities